There’s something about blackened salmon that just feels like a treat. The crispy, charred exterior paired with that tender, flaky inside? Oh, it’s a game-changer. Now, add in a zesty Creole lemon dill sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s bursting with flavor and personality. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to be a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s smoky, tangy, and full of that perfect balance of heat and coolness.
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Why You’ll Love Blackened Salmon with Creole Lemon Dill Sauce
This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re impressing guests, treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, or looking to spice up a regular weeknight dinner, this dish delivers in a big way. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Bold and Flavorful
The blackened salmon gives you that crispy, smoky crust, while the creamy Creole lemon dill sauce adds a zesty, tangy kick. Every bite is a burst of flavor that’s anything but boring.
Quick and Easy
Don’t be intimidated by the blackened technique. It’s easier than it sounds! This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you still want something impressive.
Healthy and Hearty
Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and those good fats your body craves. Paired with a refreshing sauce, this dish is both light and filling at the same time.
Customizable
Feel free to adjust the level of spice in the blackened seasoning to suit your taste. Love it extra spicy? Add more cayenne pepper. Prefer something milder? Reduce the heat and enjoy the smoky flavors without the burn.
Impressive and Delicious
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or preparing it for guests, this dish will definitely wow everyone at the table. It’s one of those recipes that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen—but in reality, it’s super simple.
Ingredients in Blackened Salmon with Creole Lemon Dill Sauce
Here’s the magic behind this dish—every ingredient brings something essential to the table. Let’s break it down:
Salmon Fillets
The star of the show. Salmon fillets are hearty and hold up perfectly to the blackening process, getting crispy on the outside while staying tender and flaky on the inside.
Blackened Seasoning
A blend of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. This seasoning creates that irresistible charred crust.
Olive Oil
Helps to coat the salmon and get that beautiful sear.
Lemon Juice
The bright acidity balances the richness of the salmon, and it’s the perfect companion to the creamy sauce.
Creole Mustard
Adds a bit of heat and tang to the sauce—an essential ingredient in Creole cooking.
Greek Yogurt
Makes the sauce creamy without being too heavy. It adds a nice tangy note that complements the mustard and lemon.
Dill
Fresh dill adds a burst of freshness and a subtle herbal flavor that ties the whole dish together.
Garlic
A little garlic in the sauce boosts its depth and adds richness.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prepare the Blackened Salmon
First, pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Then, generously coat both sides with the blackened seasoning. Don’t hold back—this is what gives it that mouthwatering, crispy crust.
Heat the Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until the outside is crispy and charred, and the inside is tender and flaky.
Make the Creole Lemon Dill Sauce
While the salmon is cooking, mix together the Greek yogurt, creole mustard, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh dill in a small bowl. Stir until everything is combined, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. You want a creamy, tangy sauce with a kick of heat.
Serve
Once the salmon is done, remove it from the pan and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle the Creole lemon dill sauce over the salmon fillets. Garnish with a little more fresh dill or a lemon wedge, and you’re good to go.
How to Serve Blackened Salmon with Creole Lemon Dill Sauce
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
Steamed Vegetables
Pair the salmon with some steamed veggies, like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans, for a light yet satisfying side.
Rice or Quinoa
Serve with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce and create a filling meal.
Salads
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette works perfectly to balance out the richness of the salmon and sauce.
Roasted Potatoes
Golden, crispy roasted potatoes are a fantastic side for this dish. Their savory flavors complement the boldness of the blackened salmon.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead
You can prepare the blackened seasoning ahead of time and store it in a jar. The sauce can also be made in advance—just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Adjust the Spice
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning. If you love heat, don’t be afraid to go all in.
Serving Suggestions
For a lighter version, serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a cauliflower rice dish to keep it low-carb.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave.
Double the Batch
Make extra blackened salmon to use in tacos or on top of a salad for a quick lunch the next day.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of fish?
A1: Yes! You can use trout, tilapia, or even swordfish for a similar blackened effect.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: You can prep the blackened seasoning and the sauce ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the salmon fresh for that crispy texture.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salmon is best when fresh, but it will still taste great the next day.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Freezing the salmon after it’s cooked is not recommended, as it can affect the texture. However, you can freeze the blackened seasoning mix.
Q5: What can I serve this with if I want to keep it low-carb?
A5: Serve with cauliflower rice or a side of grilled vegetables for a delicious, low-carb meal.
Q6: Can I make the Creole lemon dill sauce dairy-free?
A6: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt.
Q7: How can I make this dish spicier?
A7: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the Creole lemon dill sauce.
Q8: What’s the best way to reheat the salmon?
A8: Reheat the salmon gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to preserve its texture.
Q9: Can I serve this dish cold?
A9: While it’s traditionally served hot, you could enjoy the blackened salmon cold, like in a salad or sandwich.
Q10: How can I make this recipe more family-friendly?
A10: For a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper and serve with a side of mashed potatoes or corn on the cob to make it more appealing to kids.
Conclusion
This Blackened Salmon with Creole Lemon Dill Sauce is a showstopper in every sense of the word. It’s bold, flavorful, and just downright delicious. Perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or any time you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to bring these restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and let the compliments roll in!
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Blackened Salmon with Creole Lemon Dill Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying, Simmering
- Cuisine: Creole
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Blackened Salmon with Creole Lemon Dill Sauce is a flavorful weeknight meal, packed with a tangy kick and a touch of heat. The blackened salmon fillets, seasoned with Tony’s Spice N’ Herbs, Italian seasoning, and paprika, are complemented by a creamy, zesty lemon dill sauce. Perfect for a healthy, quick, and delicious dinner that will leave you coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- Tony’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning, to taste
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 6 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of one lemon
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Salmon: Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Season the salmon fillets with Tony’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Add the salmon to the skillet, skin side down. Cook for about 5 minutes, then flip the salmon and cook for another 3 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce to thicken it. Season the sauce with Tony’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning and add the chopped dill. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Finish the Dish: Return the salmon to the skillet and heat through in the sauce. Garnish with additional fresh dill and lemon before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a pescatarian-friendly option.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes before adding the salmon back in.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg